A pre-school in Erith, which puts children's well-being "at the heart of everything it does", has been rated 'Good' by Ofsted.

St Paul's Playgroup, located in Mill Road, Northumberland Heath, was given the second highest Ofsted rating following an inspection on March 19.

Catering to children aged two to four years old, with 29 currently enrolled, the pre-school offers a nurturing environment for young children's development.

Ofsted inspectors compared the playgroup to a community where "children's well-being is at the heart of everything it does".

The pre-school was rated 'Good' overall, as well as receiving a 'Good' rating for all areas: the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.

The Ofsted report, published on April 19, noted that "staff have high expectations of children", highlighting how the children are already developing good levels of independence, including washing their hands and starting to put on their own coats.

Inspectors said: "Staff are positive and offer children lots of encouragement.

"They allow them to problem solve while letting them know they are nearby for support."

Ofsted found the curriculum to be ambitious with necessary adaptations for all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and children who speak English as an additional language.

The inspection also revealed that staff demonstrate a thorough understanding of the children, recognising what needs to be taught next.

Promotion of healthy eating was found to be a key focus area at St Paul's Playgroup with staff working with parents to ensure nutritionally balanced meals.

READ MORE: Barnehurst Schools in Erith rated outstanding by Ofsted

The report said: "A fresh fruit snack is provided, and a 'fruit of the week' exposes children to more exotic tastes, such as pineapple and mango."

However, Ofsted inspectors reported that improvements are needed in planning the learning environment more effectively to support children's learning and promote independent choices.

The inspection also found the pre-school to be inclusive, allowing children to develop a "positive sense of self" and "high self-esteem".

Parents think highly of the pre-school and the staff, and feel well informed of all aspects of their children's learning and development.

Overall, the arrangements for safeguarding were found to be effective with an "open and positive culture" around safeguarding that puts children's interests first.